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One of the few places where bunraku, traditional Japanese pupper theater, can be enjoyed, this theater combines the latest in theater technology with architectural elements from the Edo period in Japan.

About National Bunraku Theater

One of the few places where bunraku, traditional Japanese pupper theater, can be enjoyed, this theater combines the latest in theater technology with architectural elements from the Edo period in Japan.

The puppetry is amazing! The stories are typical of Japan in that they are about conquering (some, rather violently). I feel this is more of an adult type of experience because the two plays we saw, one dealt with virgins being captured and a fight...More

This is a very long performance, and we left at intermission. We made the mistake of not getting the headsets that would have provided a translation of the performance as well as information on the theater. It was interesting, but I suspect that with translation...More

We weren't quite sure what to expect from Bunraku but decided to give it a go based on the excellent reviews on TripAdvisor. It was definitely worth seeing this incredible art form that is hundreds of years old! The puppets were so beautiful and intricate,...More

Bunraku is recognised as one of very few intangiable cultural heritage traditions in the world and after seeing it there is no surprises as to why. An amazing experiences steeped in tradition. I would highly recommend this to all travellers to Osaka. Definitely splurge the...More

Bunraku was for sure a very interesting form of art! Never seen anything like that before. Unfortunately you couldn't understand what they were saying (obviously) if you don't speak japanese... But interesting indeed!

An afternoon at the National Bunraku Theater was a highlight of our trip to Japan. Bunraku began in Osaka and is drawn from kabuki theatrical traditions. It uses elaborate puppets--large ones, maybe half the size of people--and scenery to act out serious dramas. The main...More

What a place and what an experience!! Enjoyed the elegant and meticulous performance of this traditional puppet art. All of the performance was in Japanese and it grows on you. Ushers brought us a. English translation of the story which made it more enjoyable. Our...More

Kabuki mixed with the tireless detail of Japanese arts are featured in Bunraku. These are serious plays (same plays performed in kabuki) acted out with elaborate puppets. You can easily get lost in the story and the fine detail of the puppets. Definitely pick up...More

I think the Autumn Banraku schedule starts Oct 29- Nov 20. There is website, English version. Just make sure you choose the right theater. The site is for several theaters in Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka. The website... More

I think the Autumn Banraku schedule starts Oct 29- Nov 20. There is website, English version. Just make sure you choose the right theater. The site is for several theaters in Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka. The website is very confusing. But you can make reservations from the website or you can take chance to buy a single act ticket on day of performance. Hope this help. It is fun, I strongly recommend.

It is not far from Nihonbashi subway station. The station attendant always helpful to show you where to go. The signs and map t the station are very clear. We just walked in to get ticket. If you want better seats... More

It is not far from Nihonbashi subway station. The station attendant always helpful to show you where to go. The signs and map t the station are very clear. We just walked in to get ticket. If you want better seats, may go get tickets in advance. Check out National Banraku theater website too.